What's the Difference Between MSc and MEng in Mechanical Engineering?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between a Master of Science (MSc) and a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Mechanical Engineering. Participants explore the implications of these degrees in terms of academic structure, thesis requirements, and potential job opportunities, while also considering geographical variations in degree recognition.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the main difference between an MEng and an MSc is the requirement of a thesis for the MSc, while the MEng consists of graduate-level electives.
  • Others argue that both degrees are equivalent, but that employers may place more value on the thesis associated with the MSc, potentially enhancing job prospects for graduates with this degree.
  • One participant questions the admission requirements for the MSc, specifically whether a Bachelor’s degree in any major is acceptable, leading to a discussion about university-specific criteria.
  • Another participant notes that the distinction between MEng and MSc may vary between the UK and the US, suggesting that the definitions and expectations of these degrees could lead to confusion without specifying the country of study.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the equivalence of the MEng and MSc degrees, with some asserting they are equivalent while others highlight significant differences, particularly in thesis requirements and geographical interpretations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these differences.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include varying definitions of degree requirements across different universities and countries, which may affect the understanding of the MEng and MSc distinctions.

doublemint
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Universities offer a MEng in mechanical engineering, but what is a Master of Science in Mechanical engineering? What are the differences and what do they do??

Thanks

DoubleMint
 
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Difference between an MEng and a MScEng is a thesis. MScEng is the one that has the thesis. MEng just has a bunch of grad level electives you can take to supplement your academic needs and or career.
 
I see. So how about the jobs that are offered to people with MScEng?
 
They are equivalent. Its just that employers hold more weight on the thesis - ie the MSc. So you would probably be put in a better position than someone who doesn't have one.
 
Thats cool. But one thing is confusing me...the graduate office for mechanical engineering at my university says I can enter MScEng with "A BSc Degree from a recognized university with a minimum four-year program or equivalent."
Does that mean BSc in ANY major??
 
Depends on the individual university requirements. The expectation would normally be a degree in engineering or a related subject (so if you're a particularly good physicist, for example). Have a chat with the admissions officer for that university if you need to know.

Also, I disagree with the response you had on the difference between an MEng and MSc in engineering. The MEng is an undergraduate degree, usually four years, of which the first three are effectively a BEng course. The final year takes your learning up to (but isn't necessarily all at) the level of an MSc. The MSc is a postgraduate course (hence the need for a prior Bachelors degree), nominally a year long.
 
brewnog said:
Also, I disagree with the response you had on the difference between an MEng and MSc in engineering.

I think there is a difference between the UK and the US(/other countries) here. Whilst what you say is correct for the UK, from what I understand, the comments that djeitnstine makes are correct for the US. Of course, since the OP doesn't specify a country, things will get a little confusing!
 

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